In the large N limit, conditions for the conformal invariance of the generalized Thirring model are derived, using two different approaches: the background field method and the Hamiltonian method based on an operator algebra, and the agreement between them is established. A free field representation of the relevant algebra is presented, and the structure of the stress tensor in terms of free fi...

In the context of nuclear waste disposal, the modelling of the behaviour of host rocks and soils still needs improvement. Unsaturated porous geomaterials exhibit particular behaviour when exposed to suction. Their non-linear behaviour may result from two different processes, plasticity which induces irreversible strains and damage which causes a deterioration of their elastic properties. Many e...

Limit equilibrium (LE) methods have been commonly used to analyze stability of geosynthetic-reinforced slopes. LE methods assume a potential slip surface, the soils along this slip surface providing shear resistance, and geosynthetic reinforcement providing tensile forces and resisting moments. Continuum mechanics-based numerical method has become increasingly used in recent years for slope sta...

The major difficulty facing the highway designer of today is the lack of a formal design procedure. Unlike the more organized engineering approach, wherein a design is developed from first prin­ ciples and then tempered by experience, the highway engineer relies almost entirely upon prior knowledge. Thus, we have the “gradeseparation” expert, the “drainage man,” the “intersection designer,” the...

THE MECHANICS OF MOMENTUM TRANSFER FROMEXPLOSIVE CHARGES BURIED IN WATER, IN SAND,AND IN SAND WITH FINESbyDAVID M. FOXAugust 2014Advisor: Dr. Trilochan SinghCo-Advisor: Dr. Joon Sang LeeMajor: Mechanical EngineeringDegree: Doctor of PhilosophyPhysical tests involving full-scale systems subjected to blast loads are expensive. Thedevelopment of more...